In several European Union countries, drug use amongst Black and minority ethnic communities is largely unacknowledged, ignored, unrecognized, or hidden by some policy-makers, drug researchers, drug service planners and commissioners, and by some members of some Black and minority ethnic communities themselves. This article presents evidence to support this statement and suggests ways forward to ensure that the knowledge base on drug use amongst these communities is increased, and drug services are accessible to all who need them. Examples of good practice in engaging members of Black and minority ethnic communities in research and with drug services are provided.
SummaryIn 2001, the Royal College of Psychiatrists produced Council Report (CR103) which concluded that services for Black and minority ethnic elders had received little attention. the report also called for an urgent need to establish a reliable and informative database of good practice and increased research. It is currently under review by the College. This article attempts to set out some of the issues that remain as well as newly identified ones. In particular, the article hopes to heighten awareness and raise debate about these issues and to link these with the College's Race Equality Action Plan.
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